When it comes to festival like holi or Mahashivratri, thandai is a drink we always look forward to, but have you ever thought about making a sugar-free version of this beloved drink ? In the thadai we use dates as a natural sweetener, making it not only delicious but also healthier alternative to store-bought version loaded with sugar.
Let’s prepare this wholesome, refreshing thandai and enjoy it with our loved once during the celebrations!
Do visit my other recipes also so Must try this recipes for Festivals!! from my blog with this post on Rajasthani Kanji Vada Recipe, It includes Crispy Rice Papadi: A Perfect Gluten-Free Tea-Time Snack, Khatta Mitha Poha Makai chivda namkeen , Seviyan ki kheer | Vermicelli Kheer ,Kala Jamun , Kheer Mohan recipe, Chawal ka meetha dosa , Indian Probiotics: A Guide to Fermented Foods further, do check my other recipes collection..
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Ingredient
For the thandai paste :
- Almonds – 2 tbsp
- Cashews – 1 tbsp
- Pistachios – 1 tbsp
- Melon seeds (Magaj) – 1 tbsp
- Poppy seeds (Khas Khas) – 1 tbsp
- Fennel seeds (Saunf) – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – 1tsp
- Green Cardamom – 5 pods
- Organic rose petals – 1tsp
- Saffron – a pinch
- Water – for soaking
For Thandai drink :
- Soaked dates (seeds removed) – 9
- Milk (alternates for vegans any plant based milk like almond / coconut / cashew milk)- 1 cup
Method
- Firstly, take a bowl, add almonds, cashews, pistachios, melon seeds, poppy seeds, fennel seeds, black pepper, cardamom, organic rose petals, and saffron. Pour 1 cup of water over them and let them soak a least 9 hours or overnight.
- Soak the seedless dates in water for couple of hours to soften them, as they will act as natural sweetener in this recipe.
- Once the soaking is done, drain the water from nuts & seeds mixture. Now we will add this along with soaked dates to blender. Blend until you get a smooth paste. If needed add water to achieve silky consistency.
- Now the thadai paste is ready you can store this paste in a refrigerator for up to 2 days, which makes it easy to prepare thandai in advance.
- To make the delicious sugar free thandai, take a few tablespoons of the prepared thandai paste in a blender. Add 2 cups of chilled milk (or plant based milk) and blend until everything is well combined.
- Finally, pour this refreshing thandai into serving glasses. For a festive touch, garnish with a few dried rose petals, chopped pistachios, and a pinch of saffron. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Enjoy this sugar-free, delicious thandai with your family and friends as you celebrate Holi or any special occasion! This sugar-free thandai is perfect for those who want to enjoy the traditional flavors of thandai without the added sugar. Make this recipe a part of your festive celebrations and share it with your loved ones for a healthy yet delicious treat!
Tips –
- Make sure to soak the nuts and seeds for at least 7 – 9 hours for the best flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, adjust the quantity of milk or thandai paste.
- You can make the thandai paste ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick and easy preparation.
- For a vegan option, substitute regular milk with almond milk, coconut milk or any plant – based milk of your choice.
